Slovakia: Nationwide anti-corruption protests March 16 /update 1

Event

Protests against alleged government corruption and the murder of an investigative journalist and his fiancée are planned throughout the country on Friday, March 16. Rallies are expected to take place in around 40 towns, with the largest demonstration to be held in the capital city of Bratislava. The protest in Bratislava will be held at the Slovak National Uprising Square starting at 17:00 (local time). Localized traffic disruptions are anticipated around all demonstrations.

Context

Over 100,000 people reportedly participated in a related protest in Bratislava on March 9. Civil society groups are calling for additional rallies despite the resignation of Interior Minister Robert Kaliňák on March 12. Citizens are demanding a thorough and independent investigation into the murder of Jana Kuciak, an investigative journalist, and his fiancée. Previous demonstrations were held in Bratislava on March 2, during which an estimated 20,000 people gathered in Freedom Square. Kuciak and his fiancée were shot and killed on February 25 while he was writing an article on alleged political corruption linked to Italian organized crime in the country.

Advice

Individuals in Slovakia, particularly in Bratislava, are advised to avoid all large demonstrations as a precaution and allow for additional time to travel in the vicinity of such gatherings.